Punjab churns out Rs1bn plan to modernise dairy farms

According to Mettis Global, the Punjab government intends to commit Rs1bn to a two-year dairy modernisation drive. The plan would provide subsidised equipment to 6,400 farmers spread across all 41 districts. Its stated goals are reducing milk wastage, lifting output and strengthening the province's dairy supply chain.

Under the proposed structure, the province would meet 60% of eligible machinery costs while farmers cover the other 40%, with subsidies capped at Rs500,000 per beneficiary. APP reported that Dr Muhammad Naeem Kanwar, Director General (Production) at the Punjab Livestock Department, said Rs461mn is allocated for the current fiscal year, with the balance reserved for 2027-28 disbursements. The 11 equipment categories range from milking machines and milk chillers to feed wagons and mechanical cattle crushes.

Punjab supplies about 74% of Pakistan's milk, so the scheme targets losses caused by poor handling, weak refrigeration and cold-chain gaps. Faisalabad has the largest projected share at up to 335 beneficiaries, while Murree has the smallest at 10. Farmers will apply at tehsil level, and eligible applicants will be selected by electronic balloting at district level.